Tokyo is easy to get around, but its most popular experiences run on timed tickets that sell out, while some of its best sights cost nothing. Knowing which is which saves money and avoids disappointment. This guide separates what is worth booking ahead from what you can simply show up for.
The short answer
Book the timed attractions (teamLab, Shibuya Sky at sunset) and any day trip to Hakone and Mount Fuji ahead of time. Visit the free sights (Senso-ji, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing) on your own, early in the morning. Consider a guided food or neighbourhood tour on your first day, when everything is new.
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Browse Tokyo tours and ticketsWhat to book ahead
| Experience | Rough price | Why book ahead |
|---|---|---|
| teamLab Planets or Borderless | From about ¥3,600 to 4,200 (roughly US$24 and up) | Timed entry; slots sell out |
| Shibuya Sky rooftop | About ¥2,700 before 3 pm, ¥3,400 later (online) | Sunset slots sell first; closes in bad weather |
| Tokyo Skytree | From about US$13 | Often cheaper online and avoids queues |
| Hakone and Mount Fuji day trip | From about US$45 for a pass-based trip | Logistics and train seats; Fuji is often cloudy |
| Kimono rental in Asakusa | From about US$18 | Better choice of times and sizes |
Prices come from public travel guides and move with season and exchange rates, so treat them as a guide and check before booking. Many timed tickets are non-refundable or have conditional cancellation, so check the terms.
What is free or walk-in
- Senso-ji (Asakusa): Free. Go before about 8 am or after dark to avoid crowds.
- Meiji Shrine (Harajuku): The grounds are free; arrive early for a quiet forest walk.
- Shibuya Crossing: Free; cross at street level.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Shinjuku): Free observation decks, a good alternative to paid viewpoints.
Booking teamLab, a food tour or a Hakone day trip? Check availability and recent reviews before you fly.
Compare Tokyo toursWhen a guided tour is worth it
- Food tours: good for navigating menus and markets with a local.
- Asakusa and Senso-ji: the history makes more sense with a guide.
- Hakone and Mount Fuji day trip: the transport changes are complicated, so a pass or organised trip saves effort.
- Skip guides for: Shibuya, Harajuku and Shinjuku, which are easy to explore independently.
Our guide to booking tours in advance or on arrival explains when pre-booking pays off, and self-guided audio tours covers the budget option.
A simple 4-day plan
- Day 1, Asakusa and Ueno: Senso-ji early, a food tour, then wander Ueno.
- Day 2, Shibuya and Harajuku: Meiji Shrine in the morning, Harajuku, then Shibuya Sky at sunset.
- Day 3, Hakone and Fuji day trip: Check the weather the night before.
- Day 4, teamLab and shopping: A timed teamLab entry, then Ginza or Akihabara.
Getting around and getting connected
A Suica or Pasmo card covers trains and most buses; see Suica, Pasmo and Welcome Suica in Tokyo. For airport options, compare Narita Express, Skyliner and limousine bus.
Get data working before you land. An eSIM keeps maps, translation and ticket QR codes working from the moment you arrive.
See eSIM plans for JapanFrequently asked questions
Which Tokyo attractions should I book in advance?
Timed-entry attractions such as teamLab Planets and Borderless, and Shibuya Sky at sunset, are the ones most likely to sell out. A Hakone and Mount Fuji day trip and any train seat reservations are also worth booking early. Book popular tickets a few weeks ahead in busy seasons such as cherry blossom time, Golden Week and summer.
Is a guided tour worth it in Tokyo?
A guide helps most for food tours, Asakusa and Senso-ji history, and day trips such as Hakone, where logistics are complicated. Tokyo's metro is easy to use, so for areas like Shibuya, Harajuku and Shinjuku you can go independently.
Which Tokyo sights are free?
Senso-ji temple grounds in Asakusa, the Meiji Shrine grounds in Harajuku and Shibuya Crossing are free. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation decks in Shinjuku are also free, which makes them a good alternative to paid viewpoints.
Can I see Mount Fuji from Tokyo on a day trip?
Yes, but Fuji is often hidden by cloud, especially in summer. Check the forecast and a live camera the night before, and book a flexible option where possible. A Hakone day trip is a popular way to combine Fuji views with hot springs and a lake cruise.
How many days do you need in Tokyo as a first-timer?
Four days covers the main areas comfortably: Asakusa and Ueno, Shibuya and Harajuku, a day trip such as Hakone, and a day for teamLab, food and shopping. Add a day if you want to see Nikko or Kamakura.
Do I need cash for tours and tickets in Tokyo?
Most major attractions accept cards and online booking, but small temples, food stalls and some local shops still prefer cash. Carry some yen and a Suica or Pasmo card for transport.
Related reading
The short version
Book teamLab, Shibuya Sky at sunset and any Hakone and Mount Fuji day trip in advance. Visit Senso-ji, Meiji Shrine and Shibuya Crossing for free, early in the day. A guided food or neighbourhood tour is worth it on day one. Prices change, so check them before you book.